Reflecting the unique character of Ravenswood
The Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce offers a set of robust services to help businesses thrive. We manage Special Service Area #31, a local tax district provides funding for expanded services to businesses. And, the GRCC partners with the Ravenswood Community Council, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to promoting community greening, the Ravenswood Farmers Market, and public art.
We strive to reflect the unique character of Ravenswood. United by a shared mission, we advocate for responsible growth and development in the Ravenswood corridor and surrounding areas.
The Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce
The GRCC serves business owners throughout Ravenswood. We can help with starting a new business, troubleshooting city-related issues, and connecting you with financial resources. We also offer business-to-business networking and educational events. Interested in social media marketing but not sure where to start? We’ve got a team for that. Need help brainstorming ideas? We’ll bring our thinking caps.
The Ravenswood Community Council
The Ravenswood Community Council is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to community greening, public art, and increasing resident engagement. The RCC organizes litter clean-up days and works closely with community garden groups. We also organize volunteers to help at the Ravenswood Farmers Market and other local community events.
Special Service Area #31
SSA #31 provides a variety of expanded city services for businesses such as snow removal, litter removal, facade rebates, and much more.
Our History
The Ravenswood Community Council has served the diverse interests of residents and local businesses since 1956. Originally founded to fight crime and blight, RCC was one of the first urban conservation commissions in Chicago. Over six decades, we have led efforts to preserve affordable housing, developed shop local campaigns, assisted in the redevelopment of the Ravenswood Industrial Corridor, and helped respond to urban deforestation through the Greening of Ravenswood.
When the old Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce closed in 2010, the Community Council stepped in to manage SSA #31 and continue providing services to small businesses. Recognizing the distinct needs and characteristics of our community, RCC founded the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce in 2015. The GRCC works alongside the City of Chicago as a Neighborhood Business Development Center and represents over 220 local businesses and organizations.
Learn more about our neighborhood history here.